Merry Christmas to John and all the family, with warmest memories of Judy. Marigail

Your loving tribute to Judy is as heartwarming; soothing to the soul as it was from the beginning of her freedom journey of pain and determination to get out of life as much as she could.....always think of her when one's own pains/aches/minor ailments cause concern.....Her laughter and kindness still linger in my memory-a few of the most cherished years of MY life - at UofM....LAA - Love As Always to YOU-the most proud possessions of her life....

MERRY CHRISTMAS to John and the family. Please remember all the good times and look forward to a New Year with new joys and happiness. Marigail

Dear Mimi,
   2021, what a year it has been. I have accomplished a lot of goals that I set for the year, but I also still have some that I have yet to reach. I wanted to give you a little year recap on everything that has happened.
   The first months of the year consisted of a lot of swimming and running. I have decided to really focus on training for running rather than swimming. I finished off my Junior year for swim at state, and track soon began. Track season, overall, went very well. I did not have the "perfect" place outcome that I wanted at state, but I hit my time goals for the season. I broke 5 minutes in the mile, and I broke 11 minutes in the 2 mile. I also set 5 school records on the track that season.
    The summer started off with college visits. Mom and I visited about twelve different colleges throughout the Southeast. I think my mom enjoyed it a lot more than me where I felt very burnt out of visiting schools after two weeks. I knew I wanted a school that was well balanced - great academics and athletes. I also wanted a good social atmosphere where I would not be stressed 24-7. Finally, I knew I wanted to stay in the South because I knew the South was the atmosphere I was looking for.
   The rest of the summer consisted of a few more college visits on random weekends, a lot of miles run, swimming in the mornings, spending time with friends, and lifeguarding. Christopher and I spent a lot of time tubing and skiing on the lake! Christopher had a baseball tournament in Panama City beach, so we spent a week there as well.
   The start of my senior year began at the end of July. I truly enjoy school. I love to learn, and I get to see so many of my friends. A few highlights from this past semester were that my classmates voted me as the 2021 Homecoming Queen! I wore two of your bracelets on the crowning night. It was very special! My senior cross country season was just ok. I did not run the times I was looking for, but I will cherish the memories with my teammates. I also finalized my Valedictorian position at the end of the semester! I know I have told you that had been a goal of mine since the 6th grade.
   The fall was very stressful for me. I had college coaches calling me all of the time, and my mom and I were having to go on official running visits to colleges almost every weekend. Missing school for the visits was a challenge for me as well. I was very very busy. It took a toll on me both mentally and physically, and I was ready to be done trying to pick a school. However, I finally committed to run Cross Country and Track & Field at the University of Georgia! I felt that UGA had the best academic, athletic, and social balance I was looking for! Right now, I believe I want to major in Biological (Biomedical) Engineering, and then get my MBA. With the double dawgs program and hopefully enough of my AP credits, I am hoping to graduate in 4 years with both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees. However, I want to really keep an open mindset my Freshman year to truly decide what major will be best for me. I met a lady who works for the athletic department at UGA, and her job is to work with athletes to figure out the best degree and career for them. She also helps make sure they get a job after college.
   Finally, Christmas and New Years wraps up 2021. Poppy, our family, and Aunt Mari's family all went to Big Sky, Montana to celebrate the holidays. We spent a week snow skiing in Big Sky and snowmobiling through Yellowstone. Poppy LOVED the snowmobiling trip! I was very happy that he went with us, and I love spending time with him.
   Mimi, I love and miss you so much. I know that I can always talk to you in my prayers and that you will be watching over all of us this next year.
Love,
Katherine

This is for John, the girls and their families to know that Judy's spirit lives within you, hopefully keeping you safe and well from the world's ills....and know that your wife/mother/grandmother has kept watch over you from afar...

Warmest greetings to John and the girls and their families. Keep creating the memories that are so important to all! Hugs. Marigail

Wishing John, Elizabeth, Mari and their beautiful families good health and peace during this incredible time. Along with sweet memories of Judy/Mom/Mimi. Love Marigail

Just this week I came across a photo of Judy and John from the wonderful boat trip we took through the Caribbean. I have so many wonderful memories of my dear friends. Hugs and much love, Marigail

Dear Mimi,
      Merry Christmas and happy (late) birthday! I love and miss you so much!
      This year has been crazy! In March, I won middle school track state in the distance of 3200 meters. I remember right before the race I prayed that you would watch over me. I know you were there with me! Swimming has gone really well too! I keep training hard and trying to improve my times. I won state again in swimming in the 50 yard backstroke. I got second in the 100 yard freestyle. In January, I played in the Georgia District Honor Band where I was first chair trumpet. (We had to audition for the band in December.) I even had a solo!
     Mom and I went to New York in March with the Schwab family! It was a great experience, but I can for sure say that I would not like to live there! For spring break, my family went snow skiing in Colorado. Poppy came with us, but he decided not to ski. However, I know he had fun, and he was also able to visit a few friends who lived there!
     I finished my final middle school band concert in May by conduction a piece! I was chosen by my classmates to be the student conductor! I was very honored to have been given the opportunity! Also, I receive the Conductors Award which is the highest award in our band program along with the Musicians Award. (which my best friend Jordan won!) The award is given to a well-rounded musician in the band who is a leader to classmates. Again, I was very honored and thankful to receive such an amazing award! To finish off 8th grade year, my school held a formal dance. It was so much fun! I wish you could have seen me dressed up. I wore some of your jewelry because it made me feel like a part of you was with me!
      Now, Summer! I continued to train for swimming and running, but I also hung out with a lot of my friends! I was able to go on the middle school national parks trip! It was such a fun experience. We mostly went around San Fransisco and Yosemite. I also went to the beach with the Bartoletta family! We had a blast! However, my summer ended with a surgery. I had to get a (fake) bone put into my mouth right under my front teeth. When I was about 7 or 8, I was hit under my chin, and I chipped a front tooth. Over the years, the tooth died and created an abscess that ate away at my bone. Don't worry though because the surgery was successful! :)
      School started, and I finally entered high school! It was easy to adjust to, and I loved every bit of it! Cross Country season did not go as well as I would have liked because I injured my knees. However, I still placed 7th in the state as a freshman. Again, I was thinking about you before, during, and after my race! High school swim season has begun, but the big meets are not until January and February! For band, I auditioned for the District Honor band. I was accepted, and I even get to audition for the Allstate band. (as a Freshman!!) The audition is in January! Next, I was invited to Colorado Springs to train at the Olympic Training center for the sport of Pentathlon. I was invited because of my swimming and running times. It was an honored and a great opportunity/experience! The rest of my family flew up once I finished training, and we went snow skiing! It was such a fun family trip! Lastly, I wanted to tell you that since I am in high school, at the end of every semester we find out our class ranking. I am 1st in my class as of right now. I know I need to continue to work hard to keep it that way, but I would never have been able to do it without you! You are such an inspiration and role model for me! Every day, I wake up to see a shelf in my room that is dedicated to you! It even has some of your ashes on it. It helps me know that you are always with me and watching over me!
     Poppy is visiting with us right now for the holidays. I know he miss you so much. Thanksgiving and Christmas time are both very hard for him because of the date of your birth and passing. However, I know it helps when we are around him. He thinks about and talks to you everyday! Mimi, Poppy and I both love and miss you very much, but I know you are watching down on us from heaven! Thank you for always being with me! I can not wait for when I see you again!
Love,
Katherine

Dear Jon and loving family....Perhaps Judy's passing at this most sacred holiday season give you all the hope, peace, joy and love to sustain you until you are with the one you love again

Happy birthday, Judy. Thanking about you today and wishing you could be here. I love you and miss you!

Thinking of Judy and John and all the fun times! love, Marigail

Merry Christmas to Judy's wonderful husband, her beautiful daughters and their families. Remember all the good times.

Your loving, living memorial to Judy is such a wonderful way to rekindle the memories of our past that bring joy, love and hope that the season before us should also inspire us......with great admiration, as always, Ginny

Wishing you a happy birthday today, Judy. I think of you so often and especially at this time of year. Missing you so much! Love, Shirley

Katherine's note to her Mimi is wonderful. I know she wanted her grandkids to see the world. She loved you all so much. Remember her and share your memories.

Mimi,
Happy Birthday! I love you so much! Everyday I think about you. I pray you are having a wonderful time in heaven. I know you are in a beautiful place! Poppy told me he bought yellow flowers just for you. We both agreed you would love them! I know he misses you so much. He thinks about you everyday. Also, Happy Thanksgiving! I remember when we all celebrated at your (and Poppy’s) house. It brings a smile to my face thinking back to all the memories we share. I am so thankful you were in my life. Once again, I love and miss you so much!
Love,
Katherine

Mimi,
I wanted to tell you about how much fun I had on the Guam and Japan Trip with Poppy, Aunt Mari, Uncle George, John, Lilly, Mom, Dad, and Christopher! I also want to thank you (and Poppy) for the amazing trip! Poppy told me about how he was only suppose to be on a year-long project for NASA on Guam, but then you all stayed on Guam for 14 years! I now understand why!
First, Japan! I thought seeing the Japanese culture was interesting! From the crowded subways to the big Buddhas, we tried to experience it all! I do have to admit, I liked Guam a lot more than Japan! The sunsets and views were breathtaking! I can see how Guam inspired you to pursue art! (I would love to try to paint a picture of Guam's sunsets sometime!)
The Chamorro food was yummy too! I loved the pancit, (bbq) chicken on a stick, and lumpia! Likewise, the Chamorro people were very friendly! We were invited to a fiesta! I was shocked to see that the table of food was always full! (even at the end of the party/fiesta)
Next, we all loved seeing the fish in their habitat while snorkeling in the crystal blue water! (We even saw a barracuda!) From there, we went on a hike up Mount Jumullong Manglo! Once again. the views were stunning! At the top of the mountain, each of us laid some of your ashes facing the ocean! Now, a piece of you will be on Guam forever!

I love you so much Mimi! Poppy and I both think about and miss you everyday!

Love,
Katherine

Thinking of Judy today, along with her beautiful husband and family. So many wonderful memories and happy times. Love to all. Marigail

Another year gone by. Loving and missing you on your birthday. 
Love,
Barbie

To Judy's Loved Ones.....As time passes, how fortunate I feel that I have 'another' day to cherish and 'challenge fate' and only hope to accomplish a smidgen of what your Mom did......and I'm sure that you are managing to do the same for her as well.....Give thanks this Holiday Season and enjoy ALL that Judy instilled in all of you....Always, Ginny

During this blessed Christmas Season my thoughts are, as always, with Judy and all of you. Love Doe.

Dear Mimi,
Merry Christmas! This year I have been doing lots of things. One thing is my battle of the books team won the championship. The same day I had a basketball game, and I scored 6 points. Also for Christmas I got my own iPhone 6s and more. Plus my family and I are on a ski trip in Utah. So that is about it. Bye Mimi.
I love you and miss you,
Christopher

Dear Mimi,
Merry Christmas Eve!! (Well tomorrow is Christmas so Merry Christmas too!!) Today is your 1 year anniversary of your passing and I really do miss you. I know you are having a great time in heaven! ❤️ Scout misses you too!!❤️ He is the 3rd child! I love you!
Love,
Katherine

Dear Mom,
I love you and miss you. I talk to you all the time. I know you would have been proud of Katherine when she won state again this year for swimming. She loves middle school and is playing trumpet in the band. Christopher still loves playing a variety of sports and is doing well in school. He read the book The Chocolate Pilot this year for a school reading battle, and it was all about the Berlin Airlift. How I wanted to be able to pick up the phone and ask you questions about it since you lived in Germany then...but I talked to you in pray instead. You were always so knowledgeable and full of great advice. We remind the children that you are always watching them and are proud of them!
I love you,
Elizabeth

Dear Mimi, (also know as the greatest Grandmother in the galaxy)
Happy 76th Birthday! I love you and miss you very much! This year has been crazy. In October, I was playing a game called Capture the Ball and this boy pushed me on the ground even though we were on the same team. I suddenly fell on my wrist and fainted because of the pain. (that was the first time I ever fainted) I found out later that I fractured my wrist. I am really sad because I will be missing almost all of the middle school swim meets. I want you to know that I have been praying for you! Also, I hope you have an amazing Thanksgiving and Christmas. I will keep talking to you in my prayers!
Love,
Katherine

In Special Remembrance to Judy, This month was always special between Judy and me, because we always tried to celebrate together. My thoughts are special toward her; I miss her, but I have the Word of God to comfort me. Psalm 116:15 "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints." Judy was gloriously welcomed as she entered the Kingdom of God in heaven, a place where I also have a home. Just think, I maybe Judy's neighbor! My prayer of Thanksgiving is also with John who faithfully and lovingly took care of Judy as she fought the good fight of faith. It seems that birth and death are difficult transitions. However, I urge everyone to plan ones passing as they so diligently plan the birth of a child. In other words, write down your ideal for passing into the Kingdom of God. For example, some people desire a sound mind or always be independent. Judy would approve of this information. God bless you, John and the family.

John, Mari, and Elizabeth, as I celebrated Easter with my family, I was reminded of the Guam Easters we shared together. Celebrating Mass as a group of Stateside transplants drew us all together as family. At the beach, at a park, or in someone's living room, with a makeshift altar, we created so many memories that the youngest in the group still cherish. I can imagine the beautiful Easter celebration shared by all our family members who have gone befor us. I can see Judy sitting back in her relaxed but regal posture, laughing and enjoying the company.

I was privileged to know Judy vicariously through Barbie and this website. She was a beautiful lady who left an amazing legacy. Peace and blessings on all she left behind,
Jane Knight

I will always remember Judy as my inspiration for pursuing the family tree and doing it correctly with sources. Even though it was John I am related to, I still felt close to Judy and she was always kind and encouraging to me. I am so sorry she is no longer with us.

Upon meeting Judy in the Finnegayan Library on Guam in the early fall of 1974, I was struck not only by her physical beauty, but by her calmness, serenity and depth. As a young school teacher I was quite agog at this sophisticated, worldly woman. She guided me through the far-less-than-perfect in the island children. After Typhoon Pamela in May of 1976, we visited Judy, John and the girls at their Carlos Heights house and passed a pleasant evening in the glow of their hurricane lanterns and their warm company. John, Pepper and the girls often came down to the beach for some adventure on the Hobie Cat, Judy less so, but it was a treat when she did. I remember visiting them at Carlos Heights the day before they departed Guam for Colombia. We kept in touch through those Colombian years and met up once again when I came to explore the possibility of living in Florida. Once I resettled in Florida, we visited occasionally until Judy and I took off on an adventure to Cuba.....legally through Vantage Travel. I believe this was 2003. As roommates, we had a fabulous time on this unique trip. Judy was in some discomfort throughout the journey, but didn't let that stop her. She was "up" for any adventure. What a fun travelling buddy! You are sorely missed, travelling buddy. I hope you are sailing amongst the clouds and gracing them with your beautiful presence.

Dear Judy,
Where do I start. 
First memories, last memories?
My first memories of you are hazy. Since you went off to college in Miami when I was a 4 year old in New Jersey, I didn't really get to know you until we moved down to join you when I was 6. What an impression you made! I have such vivid memories of seeing you dressed in your Angel Flight uniform and also of you walking on the field of Orange Bowl stadium as homecoming attendant for the University of Miami. I thought you were so beautiful! 
When we moved to Rome and you were tucked away in your attic bedroom, I remember thinking that you were like a princess living in a tower. I was fascinated by your little retreat. Then you became a movie star in my eyes. How many people can say that their sister was in a movie-Cleopatra with Elizabeth Taylor at that. Wow! Visiting the set with you to see how they built and filmed everything will be forever etched in my memory. For a 7 year old it was larger than life.
Then we moved back to the states and you stayed in Italy to begin your adventures... I'll never forget sitting in our back yard in Decatur, Alabama and knowing that on that day you were getting married in Rome, Italy. The picture of you and John on your wedding day looked like JFK and Jackie O! I wish I could have been there.
Except for the rare visit, I didn't get to spend much time with you over the next several years until Mama and I went to Guam to stay with you for a few weeks. That was when I got to know Mari and Elizabeth (to this day, I love staying up until late at night solving the world's problems with them). You and John were wonderful to take me with you on your trip to Hong Kong and the Phillipines. You were so confident and at ease everywhere we went and I was amazed that you had friends at every stop. That's when I realized how worldly you were and that you didn't travel to be pampered, but to immerse yourself in the life and cultures of other countries. I always treasured the gifts you brought back from your travels.
Fast forward to your long battle with cancer. I don't know anyone with the courage and tenacity you showed during this time. So many times it seemed that the end was near, and just as many times you would refuse to accept what the doctors had to offer-finding your own options and insisting that they treat you, or finding another doctor who would (I wonder where that stubbornness came from!)
But my best memory of you will always be of our last visit. The hours we spent on your porch-you lying in the hammock, too weak to sit up but excitedly relating story after story of the adventures in your life. No regrets-only so thankful that you and John had found each other-two drifters off to see the world. What a wonderful family you raised, what a wonderful life!
I love you,
Barbie

So glad our paths crossed in life. Thank you Judy for all that you contributed to the genealogy of the Eakins family. Your presence with your sisters and brother and family at the Eakins family reunion was very special. Until we meet again....

Albert and I remember especially a delightful day spent together with Judy and John in Naples not so long ago. Although our paths did not cross that often, Judy's warmth, her interest in all things and her love of people and desire to help wherever possible, was always apparent. She will be sadly missed, but her memory will live on for sure.

We remember Judy as an amazing woman with an indomitable spirit and a keen intelligence and wit.  She lived her life as she chose, regardless of all obstacles, with great energy and a spirit of adventure. Her travels, accomplishments, research, and her support of family were constant, despite dealing with the pain of medications and diagnosis; events that would subdue mere mortals. Judy was generous with her time and knowledge, and continues to serve as a model for those who knew her. She leaves a legacy of hope and inspiration to many. 

Please know that we are so sorry for your great loss and will miss Judy, but that we will always think of her vivacious spirit, whether in conversation at the Saxton table or in her adventures around the world.

Ronnie and Jim (Saxton) Carlson

Judy was like a rose that has the longest lasting beauty. We always had fun together because of her quick wit. Laughter was a part of her personality lasting even to the very end. I believe that she made a grand entrance into heaven saying, "This is the most beautiful place that John and I ever travelled!" Judy left some wonderful footprints for her daughters and grandchildren to follow, and I bet she left some instructions! My memories are very special dating back to Barranquilla, Colombia in the 80"s. I treasure having known John and Judy and members of her family. My message is that "peace" is always at the end of a journey especially when the Prince of Peace says, "Well done my good and faithful servant, enter in." God bless the family. Martha Bateman

John, Mari and Elizabeth,
The days pass and I think more and more of Judy, all her friendship meant to me and the many memories that float into my mind ... right from the very first memories some fifty-plus years ago when Judy, John and I first met in the ITT offices in Rome. Since then our paths have crossed often, and though we have never again lived on the same continent we have never lost touch. For me, Judy was the most talented, creative, volcanic friend, someone who always amazed me with the depth of her interests and the constance of her friendship. And then, one of the most courageous people I have ever known: perhaps THE most courageous. Her strength and courage are a beacon to us all. Piero joins me in sending our love to the three of you, Polly

Mari & Elizabeth: I have always admired your poise and grace. I know that your Mom gave that to you. Your Mom always looked like a movie star! She brought up two wonderful women; beautiful on the inside and out. I am thankful that I knew her; I know ya'll miss her dearly and also know that she will be present in everything you do. jodi

Dear John & Family,

We came to know Judy and John in Colombia. Both were fun to be around. Always smiling. Judy was the quintessential mother and wife. John would make a joke or say what was on his mind and Judy would give him that look or say something letting him know to tone it down. 

A true lady. Judy - God bless and God speed.

Mark

I met Judy 11 years ago and found her to be the most intelligent and encouraging person I have ever known. She wanted us all to experience everything we could in life as she did. She used to tell me, "Life is a buffet"! She changed my life for the better in so many ways. I'm fortunate to have known her. Thank you, Judy. I miss you and love you.

Judy never ceased to amaze me in the things she could do. When she was in college she was National Commander of Angel Flight, homecoming attendant, and worked for the Groveners(original owners of National Geographic magazine) as their personal secretary. She was a wonderful painter, jewelry designer and glass artist using a kiln for fusing pieces. She was a child model in NYC, spoke five languages fluently including German, Italian, Spanish and French. Because of her travels her knowledge of geography was filled with wonderful tales of mystery and adventure. I always looked up to her and admired her thinking she was capable of anything. She was a National Merit Scholarship finalist in high school and a charter member of Jug Club(set designer). A wonderful mother of two bright and beautiful daughters and grandmother of four bright grandchildren. Needless to say a wonderful big sister.

Dear John amd Family,
I met Judy in Fort Myers, Florida when we took an art class togtther.
We became lunch buddies sharing an interest in art and Japaniese
restaurants. We had many good times going to art shows and gallery openings. She was making jewelry at the time. One of her pieces was purchased by Sharon Stone who was hosting a charity event to benefit the local women's shelter. She was such a talented lady! Judy was so proud of her daughters too. She was warm and caring, never forgeting to ask about my children as well.
Judy, you will be missed by many. Love, Priscilla

John, Mari, Elizabeth and family. We can’t tell you how sorry we are for the loss of Judy. Such a strong and determined mother who raised a wonderfully grounded and caring family. Such a sweet, sweet spirit and unbelievably courageous to persevere for over 20 years through this battle. We have so much admiration for her as well as the family for the strength all of you have shown throughout her fight. I know she was so proud of all of you and took so much pride in raising such a wonderful loving family. I hope you take a little comfort knowing that she is now at peace and we will all see her again soon. As you know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. So many memories with the Eaken family will always be cherished.

What an amazing full life! What a wonderful legacy she left you all. May God wrap His loving arms around your entire family as you grieve. Much love.

Ms Judy,

I know you did not know me but I felt I knew you spiritually and physically the moment Mari mentioned you to our Moms in prayer meetings. I prayed so hard that you will stay at least till when you felt you were ready and I believe that was what happened. I know you are at peace and joy because there are no tears, pain, sorrow or even death in heaven. Rev 21:4. I believe you have joined one of the cloud of witnesses to cheer on your Husband, children and grand children as they continue this life's journey. I do feel a very great connection with Mari because my mother went to be with the lord the 16th of December and it took years for me to understand. However! I must say your strength to want to be at home with those you love while being taken to your heavenly home is one of the strongest strengths I have ever seen in my generation. I believe we will meet someday when the trumpet sounds and I know that day will be the most memorial one of all.

Wow – what a life you led! Is there nothing you did not experience? As I read through these wonderful tributes and your life history, I feel fortunate that I can get to know you a little better. Your incredible journey through life is certainly to be admired and is an inspiration to me.

Judy,
Thank you for being my friend from Guam, and for years to follow. I hold many fond memories of you and John as neighbors in Carlos Heights and of our visits in the subsequent years. I have always admired how you accepted adversity. Knowing life was a precious possession, you fought hard to preserve it and live it fully. Through your determined research, perseverance and courage, you succeeded against the odds when most would have been defeated. You created a network of information and support that generously benefited Realf and I as we faced Realf's challenge. You were an inspiration to all who knew you. Your devotion to your family, and your growing pride in your children and their achievements, leaves a rich legacy. I will miss you dearly.
-Doe.

John and family,
Judy became a part of my long term friendship at Eaton Hall at the U of M in 1958. We maintained contact throughout these 56 years. Judy and I were the "Southerners" among the four bedroom suites at Eaton Hall. She from AL and me from Belle Glade! Oh what an education we received from our suite mates and what fun! 
Judy was a beautiful person and I am glad we reconnected after all those years. We will miss her, but our memories will be forever. Alma and AJ Harrell

John, Mari, Elizabeth and families,

I am very sorry for your loss - Judy was a special person to all of us and I'll always have fond memories of Judy and John's visits to Decatur where we were "allowed to do anything" because Judy and John said so! Judy was one of the strongest people I've ever seen in her courageous response to her health challenges through the years but she always persevered with her headstrong spirit. We will miss Judy dearly but are lucky to have had her in our life for the time that we did. Alice and I will be praying for all of you and wishing peace upon you.

Love,
Chase, Alice, and Ann Adele

Dear Shirley, My heart aches for your family. I've always known how precious the bond you have with our sisters.. What beautiful memories you've shared. All of you are so gifted, and you have shared those gifts in so many ways. Stay strong, hold tightly to the love. God's peace be with you.